Weekend Alcohol Compliance Checks

On Saturday, March 20, 2021, the Cedar Rapids Police Department conducted alcohol compliance checks at 15 businesses throughout the city that have licenses to sell alcohol.  An individual under the legal age of 21 was able to purchase alcohol at five of the businesses.  Employees at the following locations were cited for a simple misdemeanor for selling alcohol to a person younger than 21 years of age: 

• Casey’s, 1201 1^st Avenue SE
• Hill Brothers Jiffy Mart, 1904 Mount Vernon Road SE
• Hy-Vee, 3235 Oakland Road NE
• Kum & Go, 3132 1^st Avenue NE
• Old Marion Road BP, 1120 Old Marion Road NE

If a person is found guilty of selling alcohol to a minor, the fine is $645 plus court costs.  With court costs, the total cost is $796.75. 

The Police Department reminds establishments that sell alcohol that employees should check the date of birth and identification of those purchasing alcohol.  Iowa’s legal drinking age is 21 and sale-to-minor violations carry both criminal penalties and administrative sanctions. 

Disclaimer:  Any arrest and complaint information included above is based on the legal conclusion that, as with any criminal case, a charge is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.